Chapter 71

Chapter 71 Seraphina's POV The moon was a pale sliver overhead, casting a faint glow over the courtyard as I stood alone, watching the final preparations for the envoy's arrival. Flags of Blackthorne fluttered in the breeze, standing tall beside the neutral crescent banner of the Eastern Watch. We weren’t just expecting allies anymore. We were expecting scrutiny. "Everything is set," Callista said, stepping up beside me. "Security. Seating. Protocol. Even the flower arrangements." I gave her a tired nod. "And the delegation from the Eastern Archon?" "Three high advisors and the Archon's daughter, Lady Maelin." I turned to her. "Lady Maelin? I thought she was being groomed to lead negotiations with the Silver Circle." Callista shrugged. "Apparently she asked to be sent here instead." My stomach tightened. Maelin was sharp-tongued, silver-eyed, and known for reading people like open books. If she'd chosen Blackthorne over the prestige of the Silver Circle talks, it meant she sensed somet